Townsville Mayor Nick Dametto has declared that the 33-year-old Entertainment and Convention Centre has suffered a “catastrophic failure” after heavy rain caused water to pour through the roof.
The venue, which opened in February 1993 and is built on reclaimed land near the ocean, has deteriorated beyond its intended lifespan. Plans for a full $360 million replacement have been abandoned, with the council instead seeking a $130 million funding commitment from the Queensland and Australian governments to undertake urgent roof repairs and structural remediation.
The funding is considered essential to stabilise the existing facility and allow it to continue operating.
